Preface

Investigative Photography is a reference for developing and maintaining the skills necessary to use photography as a tool of investigation. By practicing the skills covered in each chapter, investigators will be prepared to successfully deliver a professional work product and the testimony to support it.

This book contains strategies the aspiring professional can use to develop and exercise the skills necessary to be a competent investigative photographer without having to spend years accumulating experience. The challenges of using photography during investigations are explained, and the book’s lessons on presenting photography in legal proceedings will be invaluable to those preparing investigative documentation for the first time. Experienced professionals will find that the concepts and skills presented are a valuable review.

Each chapter introduces important concepts relevant to the development and maintenance of an investigative photography program and the skills necessary to produce professional results. Ownership and control of photographic materials are examined in the context of current laws. Examples of the types of relationships professionals can establish to control photograph ownership are provided, and methods for protecting proprietary use of photographs are covered. Also reviewed are procedures that support the investigative photographer’s role and promote credibility and expertise. Specific procedures and techniques for evidence collection by investigative photographers are reviewed with emphasis on the preparation required to present photography in legal proceedings.

Two chapters explain a low-cost approach to establishing an inventory of equipment that will give the EHS professional the ability to producequality long-range images as well as close-up images. Example photographs, job aids, and practice exercises are included.

EHS professionals are given the tools to assess the need for photography, develop and implement specific procedures to support those needs, and practice the skills to achieve professionalism. Methods are provided for developing a portfolio of work designed to establish the professional as a credible expert in the use of photography for investigation.

Competence in investigative photography is a skill necessary for the EHS professional. This book will enable EHS professionals to develop and practice techniques that will create a successful and seamless relationship between investigator and photographer. The relationship
between the EHS professional and investigative photography will be examined throughout the book under the assumption that many EHS professionals must sometimes act as investigative photographers or supervise investigative photographers. Using this assumption, an investigative photographer is defined as an EHS professional who actually takes investigative photographs or who supervises other investigators who take investigative photographs.

John E. Wenzel, Jr.